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Looming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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looming

[ˈluːmɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

approaching danger

To approach or appear as if approaching, especially in a threatening or menacing way. It can also refer to something that is about to happen, usually something negative or unwelcome.

Synonyms

approaching, impending, threatening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
looming

As above, used to describe something unpleasant or dreaded that is about to happen soon. Emphasizes a large, looming presence.

  • The looming deadline was causing a lot of stress among the students.
  • The looming election had everyone talking about political issues.
approaching

Suitable for general descriptions of events or time periods that are coming soon, without any negative connotation.

  • The approaching holidays have everyone feeling festive.
  • As the train was approaching, people started gathering on the platform.
impending

Typically used for something negative or unpleasant that is going to happen soon. Has a sense of inevitability.

  • There is a sense of impending danger as the volcano starts to rumble.
  • His impending retirement left him feeling uncertain about the future.
threatening

Used to describe a situation or a thing that not only is about to happen but also implies harm or danger.

  • The dark, threatening clouds signalled a heavy storm was on its way.
  • The dog's threatening growl made everyone step back.

Examples of usage

  • The storm clouds were looming on the horizon.
  • An economic crisis is looming ahead.
  • The deadline for the project is looming closer.
Context #2 | Noun

sense of dread or anxiety

A feeling of impending danger or trouble, often accompanied by a sense of fear or unease. It can also refer to a shadow or a dark shape that appears to be approaching.

Synonyms

impending, ominous, threatening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
looming

Use this word when referring to something that appears overdue or is about to happen soon, often with a sense of unavoidability.

  • The deadline for the project is looming
  • The dark clouds are looming on the horizon
impending

Best used for events that are soon to occur, particularly those that are usually scheduled or predictable.

  • They were unaware of the impending storm
  • He felt nervous about his impending job interview
threatening

Used when something poses a danger or harm, either physically or emotionally; often has a direct and aggressive implication.

  • The dog was barking in a threatening manner
  • She received several threatening messages
ominous

Typically used to describe something that suggests danger or an impending negative event; usually has a sinister or threatening connotation.

  • An ominous silence filled the room
  • The sky turned an ominous shade of black

Examples of usage

  • The looming sense of failure weighed heavily on her.
  • There was a looming darkness in the forest.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Looming presents itself often as a cognitive bias where anticipated negative events feel more imminent and threatening than they may actually be.
  • This state of mind can lead to increased anxiety, as the brain tends to overestimate the impact of future challenges.

Literature

  • In literature, looming is often used to create suspense or tension, as characters face overwhelming obstacles or feelings.
  • Writers use the concept of looming to symbolize unresolved conflicts or inner turmoil, enhancing emotional depth.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and films often depict looming crises, emphasizing how characters face fears that appear larger than life.
  • In horror movies, looming figures can create a sense of dread, amplifying the emotion of fear.

Origin of 'looming'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Middle English word 'lomen', meaning to shine or to gleam, which reflects how shadows can appear more prominently.
  • In the 17th century, 'loom' referred to rising above the horizon, which can be linked to how something appears unexpectedly.

The word 'looming' originates from the Old English word 'lōma', meaning a gleam or a ray of light. Over time, it evolved to represent something appearing indistinctly or threateningly. The modern usage of 'looming' to describe approaching danger or a sense of dread dates back to the 17th century.

See also: loom.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,879, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.